Surgery could keep Kyle Lafferty out of action for a month

Kyle Lafferty could be set to miss the first month of the season after being told he needs surgery.

The Rangers striker returned early from the club's pre-season training camp in Germany last week with a hernia problem, and after consulting a specialist he will have an operation early next week.

The Scottish champions begin their defence of the Clydesdale Bank Premier League title against Hearts on Saturday but Lafferty could be out of action until the end of August. Manager Ally McCoist told the Rangers website: "Kyle is going for an operation for a hernia problem which will keep him out for three to four weeks. He will have the surgery next Tuesday down south."

Meanwhile, Sasa Papac has not travelled with the rest of the squad for today's friendly in Blackpool because of a hamstring problem but should be fit for the weekend.

Madjid Bougherra is back after a hamstring injury and Maurice Edu is also set to feature after rejoining the squad at the weekend, following his involvement with the United States national team in the Gold Cup.

McCoist added last night: "Sasa is not travelling to Blackpool as he has a tight hamstring but Madjid Bougherra and Mo Edu are both back in.

"Maurice came back on Sunday and trained with us today and will travel with us."